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Over-development Pressure

Over-Development in the Barnegat Bay Watershed

Ocean County has been a hotspot for growth, once ranked as the fastest-growing county not only in New Jersey but across the country. The population has surged as both year-round residents and seasonal visitors flock to the area. In some towns, the influx of summer tourists causes the population to more than double. While this growth fuels the economy, it also places significant pressure on the Barnegat Bay watershed, causing far-reaching environmental and quality-of-life challenges, such as:

  • Loss of Habitat: Development reduces critical natural spaces for native plants and animals.
  • Loss of Wildlife: Urban sprawl and human activity displace local species, threatening biodiversity.
  • Decrease in Water Quality: Runoff from impervious surfaces like roads and rooftops introduces pollutants into the bay.
  • Increased Flooding: Paved-over areas disrupt natural water absorption, leading to more frequent and severe flooding.
  • Traffic and Noise: Congestion and urban noise levels rise, disrupting human and wildlife habitats.
  • Increase in Litter: With more people comes more trash, much of which finds its way into natural areas.
  • And More: The ripple effects of unchecked development harm ecosystems and the local community.

To explore how over-development has directly impacted our water bodies, watch Story #2: Tale of Two Creeks from our documentary Drift:
Watch the video

Save Barnegat Bay’s Role in Protecting Natural Spaces

For over 53 years, Save Barnegat Bay has worked tirelessly to protect the watershed from the pressures of over-development. Our efforts have led to the conservation of thousands of acres in partnership with local, county, state, and federal agencies. Highlights include:

  • Collaborating with the Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge and local Green Acres projects.
  • Supporting the founding of the highly successful Ocean County Natural Lands Trust.
  • Advocating for sustainable development and stronger environmental protections.

How You Can Help

Preserving the Barnegat Bay watershed requires collective action. If you’re facing a development issue in your area, let us know by filling out this form. Together, we can protect the natural spaces that make our community unique.

To further support our mission, consider making a donation. Every contribution helps us continue this vital work. Please donate.

Let’s protect Barnegat Bay for generations to come!

Alexandra Sellitsch

Alex is 27 years old and is an aspiring marine biologist who is finishing up her junior year at Stockton University. Growing up by the beach has made a significant impact on Alex’s life, which has influenced her passion for the ocean. She is an advocate for elasmobranch conservation, and enjoys getting her hands dirty in research. Alex is currently an intern with Barnegat Bay, researching pathogen influences in the bay’s water. She is also an active intern partnering with one of her professors, who is researching dual seagrass habitats in the Mullica River-Great Bay Estuary. In her spare time, Alex enjoys spending time at the beach and teaching herserself new hobbies. Hobbies that include roller skating, and surfing. Alex is also volunteering with the Berkeley Township Underwater Search and Rescue Team, and is in the process of obtaining her SCUBA certification.